According to Director General Susantha Kahawatta, vessels that enter Maldivian waters in violation of the country’s laws risk being detained by Maldivian authorities. He emphasized that such vessels are often subject to substantial fines for their release, imposing severe financial burdens on vessel owners.
Mr.Kahawatta further noted that these fines can be extremely high and unaffordable, and that the Sri Lankan fisheries authorities have no capacity to intervene or represent vessel owners in such legal situations.
The new regulations must be followed both when departing for the Arabian Sea and when returning to Sri Lanka.
Under the updated procedures, vessel operators are required to submit an application at least 96 hours prior to entering Maldivian waters. The application must be sent to both designated email addresses: [email protected] and [email protected].
Mandatory documents to be submitted include:
Vessel registration certificate
Departure form
Crew details
A photograph of the vessel
A route map indicating entry and exit waypoints
The Department urges all vessel owners and fishermen to strictly adhere to these regulations to avoid legal complications and significant financial losses.
